When it was time to start looking for a college internship, I scrolled through my university’s online resources and did a double take. There it was: an opportunity to learn from the Music Design team in Mood Media’s Austin office.
Let’s rewind. Music has always been a big part of my life. My grandfather in the Philippines was his hometown’s musical legend. His fingers glided across his 14-string bandurria as he impressed the ladies, my grandmother included. His love for playing translated into my own passion for music as I learned how to play different instruments. He always said music was a service, and you play for people to bring them happiness on the bad days and the good days. His words began a daily effort in my life to witness the universal impact of music to bring meaning and inspiration to people’s lives.
When I discovered Mood Media’s primary aim is to create meaningful experiences between brands and consumers through solutions such as music, the stars aligned. Suddenly, and in the best way possible, I found myself transitioning into the world of music curation. Each day of the internship is brimming with opportunities: to collaborate and learn from the Music Design team, to conduct music research, to expand my knowledge of music and discover emerging artists, and to foster both creativity and passion for music by engaging in diverse tasks.
However, recalling my grandfather’s words, I must admit the most important lesson I have learned from this experience is of service. It’s fascinating to witness and be a part of Music Design’s endeavor to provide memorable experiences between brands and consumers through defined audio identities. To do this involves conducting consultations, which requires communication, empathy, and a willingness to learn and understand a company’s brand – traits I have admired and identified among my interactions with Music Designers. It’s not easy to confront the degree of subjectivity that lies in music, but within this struggle is the opportunity to craft a program that listeners enjoy, humming and tapping their feet in stores. Music Designers recognize these small moments as the greatest rewards.
I think it’s safe to say I’ve learned a lot from this experience. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of Mood Media’s Music Design internship, and I am excited to apply what I’ve learned here in every aspect of my life.
– Submitted by Mariel Calara, Music Design